Young Royals Nominated

The Royals young Irish duo Pierce Sweeney and Sean Long have both earned nominations ahead of the prestigious FAI football awards next month.

The ceremony, set to take place on February 3rd, is held annually to honour the best Irish international football players of the year.

Centre back Sweeney is nominated for the FAI Schools International Player of the Year, whilst Long is up for the U17 International Young Player of the Year.

Elsewhere, there was more recognition for Reading’s up and coming stars as Academy goalkeeper Lewis Ward earned his first call up to the England under 16 squad, ahead of a clash with Germany in Cologne next month.

Dominic Samuel and Jonathan Henly could also be in action during the international break – receiving call ups to England under 19s and Scotland under 19s respectively.